If you already own a company abroad, you can enter the UAE through a new company (a subsidiary), a branch of the existing company or a representative office. Each has a different legal and practical effect.
The three options
- Subsidiary: a separate UAE company, owned by your foreign company. It has its own liability.
- Branch: an extension of the foreign company. It can usually trade, and the parent is legally responsible.
- Representative office: a presence for marketing and liaison only, normally without trading or invoicing.
| Point | Subsidiary | Branch | Representative office |
|---|---|---|---|
| Legal status | Separate company | Part of parent | Part of parent |
| Liability | Limited to the UAE company | Parent is responsible | Parent is responsible |
| Can trade | Yes, within licence | Yes, within licence | Generally no |
| Documents | Shareholder documents | Parent documents, often attested | Parent documents, often attested |
| Best for | Separate risk and local growth | Quick extension of existing operations | Testing the market |
How to decide
Choose a subsidiary if you want to separate risk or bring in local partners. Choose a branch if you want the same legal entity to operate in the UAE. Choose a representative office if you only need a presence while you explore the market.
Documents to expect
Branches and representative offices usually need parent company documents, such as incorporation papers and board resolutions, attested in the home country. Plan time for this. See our attestation and renewal checklist.
More detail: branch and representative office setup.
This article is general information, not legal or tax advice. Rules, fees and thresholds change, so we confirm current requirements with the licensing authority before you commit.
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